Archive for September, 2008
You may remember an announcement not too long ago regarding a quality freebie, a men’s bronze pendant necklace by dionysia Elytis. At the time, dionysia was just starting to design jewelry for men, and we had some fascinating chats about men and their likes and dislikes. Apparently I managed not to dissuade her entirely, as she has created a total of four different sets of matched jewelry pieces for men.
dionysia’s design approach is different from that of some other designers whose work I love–her pieces are simple and sturdy rather than delicate or elaborate. The bold shapes allow her beautifully detailed textures to take center stage. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: Yes
Notes: On Ryan: "Stephen" skin by VincentTalent Maximus (Styria). "Nick" hair by din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio). Ornate Cardigan and Classic Jeans by Jesseaitui Petion (Aitui).
Post Category: Casual, Dionysia Designs, Dressy, Freebies, Jewelry, New Items
September 29th, 2008 at 07:13pmRyan Darragh
Don’t ever let Ryan know, dear reader, but our night out on the clubs and its aftermath have indeed left me more than somewhat intoxicated and tired from the top of my spinning head to the tips of my danced-out feet. If only these Supersprints by Detour Sideways had come to my attention sooner! Their clean minimalist lines and scuff-resistant shiny exterior might even have escaped the notice of franks places’s style police for formal wear (well, perhaps not the pink ones). I could have used their soft yet firm support on the dance floor; and, as you may know, there are times when I certainly could have used the ability to run swiftly.
(more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Nora Entice - Hunter Cinnamon by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins & Fashion). "Jared" hair in burnt grey by Elikapeka Tiramisu (ETD). "Tortoise-shell glasses" by Arcadia Asylum (Hobo freebies). Coal-coloured jeans by Chez Nabob (CHEZ). Basic Thermals (tops) in dark gray by Starley Thereian (Moderno).
Post Category: Casual, Detour, Shoes, Sportswear
September 28th, 2008 at 11:13amMr. Oh
I’m back again, this time with a review of JHZ. JHZ is a small store that advertises as selling High Definition clothes for men. The style is somewhat urban with baggy, worn jeans and tight T shirts.
Some of the shirts they sell are branded with first life brand logos. I won’t cover these by blog policy. I’ll cover the jeans, some original t shirts and some layered tees though. The store also makes some accessories, of which I’m showing the bracelets in my review.
I’ll start with the jeans. The texture is quite ‘crispy’ and sharp. The only blurry area I saw on the jeans was around the crotch, but that was completely the fault of the SL mesh. I’m sure we’ve all seen how SL distorts baggy or loose clothing. Since the pants are modify enabled I fixed it for myself by lowering the crotch height from 33 to 15. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: Yes
Notes: On Daman: Scorpio skin by Khai Sinister (TheAbyss), Stripped Black Sneakers by Emilia Redgrave (Redgrave), Industrial piercings by Deekay Xavier (DEEKS), Jack hair by Wicked Loudon (Dernier Cri)
Post Category: Designer Reviews, JHZ, Jeans, Jewelry, Shirts, Urban
September 27th, 2008 at 11:00amDaman Tenk
Domch kicked my ass. Plain and simple. 93 to 5. I gotta hand it to him — the pics were amazing. As good as they were on the site, I had to shrink them for standards purposes and they are stunning at full size. I almost voted for him myself, actually. The man deserves his trophy. Enjoy the cookies, Domch — I didn’t put laxatives in them this time 
(more…)
Post Category: Style Throwdown
September 26th, 2008 at 03:21pmExpress Zenovka
I’ve been picking up a variety of items with interesting skull-motif artwork lately, and not just because Halloween is coming. (Two of my favorite recent acquisitions are the skull-decorated high-tops and belt by Menno Ophelia.) The skull and skeleton are fascinating figures in art, especially in Mexican Day of the Dead artwork, which I see a lot of in Los Angeles. I think their use and appearance in artwork, and our response to them, says something interesting, even revealing about our paradoxical fear of and fascination with the idea of Death. (Whoah, sorry, I didn’t mean to get all philosophical on you there.) This week, I’ve added to my growing collection one of Tyreak Takashi’s new sculpted neckties, just out at The Syndicate. Five different designs are currently available, but I found myself immediately clicking “Buy” on the one called “Skully”…although in fairness I was awfully close on the pink cupcake. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Stephen" skin by VincentTalent Maximus (Styria). "Ibuki" hair by din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio). Italia Silk Dress Shirt by Nicole David (Armidi).
Post Category: Casual, Dressy, New Items, The Syndicate, Ties, Uncleweb Studio
September 25th, 2008 at 04:43pmRyan Darragh
It’s not often that Mr. Oh and I have the opportunity to get out and tear around inworld together, wreaking havoc as we go. (Living on opposite sides of the “real world” will have that effect.) I am somewhat saddened by this.
—Well, thank you, Ryan; most kind of you to say, although there are those who might argue that, all things considered, it’s for the better that our teamwork is limited by the realities of geography and time zones and…
Let’s let the good readers judge that for themselves, my friend. After all, it was all in good fun.
—Well certainly on my part, of course, but… (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Most | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: Random skin by Garbage Prototype (Random). "Jin" hair by Din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio). Kalico Neko Ears by Kenny Sleeper (Kalico Kreations). Neko tail by Zoe Llewelyn (Jungle Voodoo). "Gallop" shoes by Maris Kanto (Kalnins). On Mr Oh: Nora Entice - Hunter Cinnamon by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins & Fashion). "Perry" hair in silver-grey by Truth Hawks (Truth). "Monocle!" by Brodrick Kubert (BroGear). Hand-Drawn Wingtips in Black, Brown and Oxblood by Barnesworth Anubis (Barnes Boutique). On Posy: "Tuesday Honey - Pink Portia" skin by Annyka Bekkers (Blowpop). "Hive" hair by Six Kennedy (Gurl 6). Chiffon Ruffle dress by machang Pichot (AOHARU). "Belles" shoes by Fallingwater Cellardoor (Shiny Things). On Suzi: Suppin Platinum Pearl skin by Hiro Pintens (Hi-Rop). Rumor in Ash Blonde by Stumbelina Ophelia (Cake). Blue Lace Satin gown by Tavo Vella (Bogart's).
Post Category: Business, Casual, Designer Reviews, Dressy, Jackets, New Items, Outfits, Pants, Sartoria, Shirts, Suits, Uncleweb Studio
September 23rd, 2008 at 10:28pmRyan & Oh
Most folks tend to associate cowboys with “gunslingers” cuz of Western movies. I’d think that between the cattle drives, working around the ranch, and just tending to cattle a cowboy ends up pretty damn busy. In fact, that may be why Domch Raymaker of SLMen fame couldn’t make it to the throwdown on Friday. But, here he is on Sunday with an awesome entry. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Post Category: Accessories, Boots, Costumes, Freebies, Hair, Hats, Jackets, Jeans, Period, Roleplay, Shirts, Style Throwdown
September 21st, 2008 at 03:00pmExpress Zenovka
There was a time when you could count the Great Cobblers of SL on one or maybe two hands, especially if you were talking about shoes for men. Eponymous Trenchmouth. Fallingwater Cellardoor. Funk Schnook. swaffette Firefly. To name just a few of my own longtime favorites. These days, there are a lot more designers out there doing interesting and creative work in every imaginable area, including shoes for men. To this I say: “Say thankya.”
Sculpted prims in particular are making possible sophisticated shoe designs with smoothly shaped forms that only a small handful of designers have accomplished–and this no doubt tediously–with standard prim construction. (When I consider “just” the challenge of creating the illusion of seamless texture across a complex prim object, it makes my head hurt.) Maris Kanto’s “Gallop” dress shoes are impressively sculpted lace-ups, long, sleek and elegant, perfect for pairing with formal attire, dress or business suits, or lending class to a pair of jeans. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Antonio" skin by Funk Schnook (FNKY!). "Czech Mate" hair by Noam Sprocket (Gritty Kitty). Classic Tux by Shai Delacroix (Casa Del Shai).
Post Category: Business, Dressy, Formal, Kalnins, New Items, Shoes
September 20th, 2008 at 12:04amRyan Darragh
We’re sorry to inform your regularly scheduled programming is undergoing technical difficulties. Please stand by
No really though, Domch’s RL got a bit busy lately so we’re rescheduling the throwdown for Sunday. Since there was no provision for this in the rules, I figure it seems fair to a) start the next throwdown cycle from today and b) still end current one next Friday, since a shorter time for gathering for votes seems to be an appropriate “penalty”. Any opinions?
Post Category: Style Throwdown
September 19th, 2008 at 03:08pmExpress Zenovka
Free to a good home–one kittyboy, male (natch), unaltered, house trained, occasionally sulky. Good sense of humor, Protestant work ethic, has his own wardrobe. Affectionate but kind of a handful. Answers when he feels like it to Ryan and Hey Dumbass. Call after 6pm SLT.
I love it when an outfit comes together. I started with the fab new “Deadman Walking” layered jacket by Juwan Lane, because once I tried it on I realized I didn’t want to take it off–maybe ever. (I then realized I couldn’t think of anything that completed the look and felt “right”…but more on that in a moment.) The lovingly detailed jacket has gorgeous, almost velvety-looking fabric texture all around and big, bold artwork in back. I’m also wearing the optional “puffer” shirt, which fills out the sleeves and adds just a little bulk. The jacket’s shading is neither male- nor female-specific, and the prim collar with flexi tie is included in both male and female versions. I found that the tie called for some non-trivial but not terribly difficult adjustment via Edit Linked Parts, so the tie wouldn’t poke through to the inside of the collar. Permissions are Modify / Copy / No Transfer. Juwan’s layered jackets are available in five different styles (L$200 each) at Ju Ju’s Closet (HollandCoast 2 65, 188, 32).
(more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: Random skin by Garbage Prototype (Random). Neko ears and tail by Zoe Llewelyn (Jungle Voodoo). Akeyo Chucks high-tops by Akemi Yoshikawa (Akeyo).
Post Category: Casual, Gritty Kitty, Hair, Hats, Jackets, Ju Ju's Closet, New Items, Pants, Shorts
September 17th, 2008 at 08:33pmRyan Darragh
When Iris floated “grunge” as the theme for this issue, she said, by way of suggestion, “Think Mad Max…think Tina Turner.” Ah, I thought, I know what she means—post-apocalyptic fashion. The Thunderdome! But when I started hitting up friends for their favorite grunge outfitters, they mentioned a number of designers, all doing creative work that’s at least as different as it is similar. Is grunge like indecency? Do people just know it when they see it? It seems that grunge is, or at least can be, many things to many people. Here I’ve taken a rather broad view, from urban back-alley chic to grunge kitty gear to steampunk wasteland hardware to, yes, post-apocalypse couture. I invite you to indulge yourselves. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: Some
Notes: On Ryan: FORM skin and “Yagaruma” hair by Zabita Assia (FORM). “Jack” skin with wounds by Posy Trudeau (Flesh Peddlers). “Simon” skin by Kenny Sleeper (Kalico Kreations). “Illusion” hair by Khai Sinister (The Abyss). “Sway” hair by Jesseaitui Petion (Aitui). Old Shoes by Fallingwater Cellardoor (Shiny Things). O-Ring jewelry by Mhaijik Guillaume (Mhaijik Things).
Post Category: Angry Monkey, BareRose Tokyo, BroGear, FORM, Fantasy, Grunge, Kalico Kreations, Steam Powered Nuts, Steampunk, Unzipped, [Men's Corner]
September 15th, 2008 at 09:07amRyan Darragh
I was so impressed with the beautiful Emvee Cuba build by Menno Ophelia that I did “location photography” there for not just one but two of my recent posts–and I still haven’t exhausted all of its possibilities. It seemed something of an interesting coincidence, then, when I heard about Menno’s new clothing and accessories shop, Kari. It took me a few days (I got sidetracked by Hair Fair, so shoot me), but on my first visit to Menno’s shop I found myself grinning more often than not as I perused the eclectic selection.
“Kari has been in creation for over a year,” says Menno. “My style is not the easiest to describe, but basically it is unisex clothes, sculpted shoes, accessories, posed props and whatever I feel like making. My influence comes from personal things I wear, like to wear and see on the streets [of Amsterdam] on a daily basis.” I can only speak for myself, but I admire designers who follow their bliss, so to speak, simply creating things that appeal to them. I honestly believe that, when a designer is excited, passionate and having fun, that shows through in their work.
“If you build it, they will come”? Yeah, it’s a cliché, I know. But still. 
(more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: Random skin by Garbage Prototype (Random). "Avant-Garde" hair by Kavar Cleanslate (Exile).
Post Category: Accessories, Bags, Casual, Designer Reviews, Hats, Hoodies, Jeans, Kari, New Items, Shirts, Shoes
September 13th, 2008 at 11:23amRyan Darragh
Woohoo! 21 to 10.. I’m a winnar! Seems people like cooky old Professor Ex. I sent Takeshi the mini trophy through inter-campus mail while polishing on big trophy on my desk.
Next week’s theme is “Cowboy,” and I’m up against Domch Raymaker of SLMen. Since cowboys come with horses, I decided to up the budget to 4500L, which should hopefully allow for all sorts of fun accessories. Domch has been very very hush hush about his plans, but I know he’s got something good up his sleeves!
Post Category: Style Throwdown
September 12th, 2008 at 03:16pmExpress Zenovka
Xekello Shilova’s company, ShooZ, makes few things for men. But a number are unisex and these are some you’re going to like. Top quality graffiti for your feet, wrapped onto one of the best sculpted sneaker shapes you’ve ever seen; you can feel the sponginess of the rubber-substitute in those toe pieces.
The first ones I show you have to be Wicked Dice with their vivid colours and striped laces. Here the graffiti is wild spray acrylic paints. I seem to have gotten a shopworn demo copy, as the toes are not in pristine shape. Before I forget, I should tell you that these zneeks all have software size control. Click on a sneaker and a dialogue box appears allowing you to change its size by increments. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Nora Entice - Hunter Cinnamon by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins & Fashion). Black Tweed Jeans from Denim Suit Set by Chloris Hathor (Indigo).
Post Category: Casual, Gothic, Grunge, Shoes, ShooZ, Urban
September 11th, 2008 at 12:37pmMr. Oh
I think it took me four days to get through Hair Fair this year, a combination of spare (okay, I’ll qualify that to “more or less available”) time in my evenings during the week and weekend afternoons. Hey, there was a lot to see–87 hair designers spread across four sims. That’s a workout even if you’re in good shape. Somehow it just felt BIGGER this year, although I know the event took up four sims last year too. [My memory misinformed me--Hair Fair 2007 occupied two sims, not four. See the Comments for the authoritative scoop.] The layout this year was a big change from last year’s more mall-like plan. The build architecture by Rezzable (by Washu Zebrastripe, Damien Fate and Selena Gateaux, hosted in sims provided by Rezzable) reflected Mayan influences, as you can see in the large structure shown here, a kind of “temple” pyramid which served as an arrival/welcome area. There was a comfortably appointed rest area as well as displays featuring custom styles for auction to benefit Locks of Love and winners of a Flickr photo contest. Designer booths were arranged in ranks around the central temple in long rows set at angles to one another. If it sounds confusing–it certainly could be, if for instance I had (hypothetically, of course) crashed or relogged a few times and lost track of where I had already been. If it sounds exhausting to you–I suppose it might be, especially if you tried to do the whole thing in one sitting. If it sounds like fun–well, I had a good time shopping (hair whore that I am) and chatted with some nice people along the way.
Think about it this way: I go to Hair Fair so you don’t have to. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: Some
Notes: On Ryan: "Antonio" skin by Funk Schnook (FNKY!). "Adam" skin by Hart Larsson (PXL Creations). Men's Basic Tees by Maximillion Grant (The Body Politik).
Post Category: AOHARU, ARGRACE, Aitui, Calico Ingmann Creations, Color Me Couture, Diversity Hair, Exile, Freebies, Hair, Hayate's Hair Lab, Laqroki, New Items, Novocaine, Tami McCoy, booN
September 9th, 2008 at 10:33amRyan Darragh
If you don’t mind designer labels, you can pick up some L$1 packs of shoes, hats (some with hair) and belts by Brunoo Loon at Eish!.
Post Category: Accessories, Asides, Casual, Eish!, Freebies, Hats, Shoes
September 8th, 2008 at 10:57amRyan Darragh
Today I found a beautiful freebie (okay, it’ll cost you L$1) men’s necklace, in bronze with triskelion design, by dionysia Elytis. Pick it up at her shop The Perfect Gift.
Post Category: Asides, Dionysia Designs, Freebies, Jewelry
September 7th, 2008 at 07:14amRyan Darragh
I had a hell of a time finding a neko skin I liked. I looked all around, asked people for recommendations, tried on demos like you wouldn’t believe. My thing was, I wanted a skin that, kitty markings aside, would also look good as a skin on its own. I wanted a skin that still left me looking like Ryan, but not Ryan turned feral. What about neko tattoos? you may be wondering. You’re right, some of those look very good, and of course the big plus is that you can wear them with your favorite skin. This approach may well work for you. But I wanted markings on my face, too, and what if I wanted to wear them with some specific clothing and I had a layer conflict? What if I wanted to wear other tatoos? What if I wanted to wear them with underwear? (Nekos get nasty, too, you know.) Maybe, if they came on all the clothing layers… No, what I really wanted was a skin. A really good neko skin. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Al" hair by Din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio). Gray Skull shirt by beanster Potato (Ducknipple). SubZero cargo shorts and GearShift boxer briefs by Donovan Brennen (GearShift). On Posy: "Classic - Carbon" skin by Gala Phoenix (Curio). "In Space" hair by Rita Groshomme (Curio). White Neko Ear & Tail set by Wynx Whiplash (ExtroVirtual Headquarters). White Whiskers by Noam Sprocket (Gritty Kitty). Purr Girl Tee (Miau Haus) and Posy-Dukes shorts (Civvies) are her own designs. Gray Knee-hi Tubesocks by Starley Thereian (Celestial Studios). PornStar Xtra Hi-Tops by Coke Dreadlow (Urban Bomb Unit). Belted Collar in Black by Ivy Graves (Atomic Kitty).
Post Category: AV Puli Animations, Animations, Atomic Kitty, Casual, Ducknipple, Ephemeral Creations, Eyes, Fantasy, Hybrid, Jewelry, Neko, New Items, Roleplay, Shoes, Skins, Socks, Uncleweb Studio
September 6th, 2008 at 03:15pmRyan Darragh
Now that September has started and Labor Day has come and gone in US, a lot of students are getting ready to head back to school. Myself included.. most of my half was written while trying not fall asleep in class. Throwdown posts might come a bit later from now on cuz I have classes and have to post after them. This time, though, I’m up against Takeshi Kiama, VP of Instyle and author at Essence of SL. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Post Category: Style Throwdown
September 5th, 2008 at 05:36pmExpress Zenovka
I know, I know–it’s still Summer for a lot of us. But, really, it’s not too early to get started on shopping for Fall. And then there’s Halloween…and Christmas. See what I mean?
The seasons may be less restrictive in SL, but I would never say that they aren’t relevant. Even though we don’t have to worry about the weather, for me at least it’s still enjoyable and even meaningful to follow the cycle of seasons. Masaru Raymaker knows this, I think. The new Sporty Fleece Jackets at M.R.M. Factory are evidence.
Before I move on to all the logistical details, let me just point out the quality of the fleece fabric texture. Look at the ribbing at the cuffs and waist, the slight pucker of the covered zipper in front, and those slash pockets–they look like you could slip your hands right inside for warmth. This is beautiful work, and no less so for being “just” a jacket. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Antonio" skin by Funk Schnook (FNKY!). "Jeff" hair by Din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio). MSS 2nd Anniversary tee and jeans by Posy Trudeau.
Post Category: Casual, Jackets, M.R.M., New Items, Uncleweb Studio
September 3rd, 2008 at 12:43pmRyan Darragh
The collar is a prim of course. Somehow, despite the very tricky plaid pattern, Kobe Flatley has managed to blend the join seamlessly (except some facelights will cause a shadow). With that cut-out, it looks like a jacket lapels that have been turned up and securely buttoned up. I honestly don’t see how anyone can live without at least one of these. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Nora Entice - Hunter Cinnamon with stubble by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins & Fashion). "Yu-ya" hair by Orange Meili (Discord). "Twinz" glasses by Nibb Tardis (primOptic). Various jeans by Kobe Flatley (Mechanism) and, in the final photo, Ultimate Wool suit in grey by Blaze Columbia (Blaze).
Post Category: Casual, Jackets, Mechanism, Shirts, Urban
September 2nd, 2008 at 10:25amMr. Oh
You may remember an announcement not too long ago regarding a quality freebie, a men’s bronze pendant necklace by dionysia Elytis. At the time, dionysia was just starting to design jewelry for men, and we had some fascinating chats about men and their likes and dislikes. Apparently I managed not to dissuade her entirely, as she has created a total of four different sets of matched jewelry pieces for men.
